Research engineers from around the world introduce the main issues influencing the dynamic behavior of railways, and summarize the history and state of the art of the analytical and computer tools and techniques used in the field. The level of detail should allow engineers working in the railway industry worldwide, as well as fellow researchers, to analyze common practical situations; references point to deeper information if needed. Reflecting the US competence in rail technology, which ranks somewhat below its competence in soccer, only two of the 15 contributors are American. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)